HENSOLDT UK: trusted technology, proven performance

Company

About us

The core product technology of HENSOLDT UK is Kelvin Hughes SharpEye – a radar transceiver launched in 2006 that brings military grade target detection at an affordable price to warships and offshore patrol vessels. SharpEye is a solid state pulse Doppler navigation and surface search radar sensor and differentiates to the competition through its extremely high reliability and ability to detect very small Radar Cross Section (RCS) targets in severe weather or high clutter conditions.

Since becoming part of HENSOLDT in 2017, HENSOLDT UK's role has expanded. While we continue to lead in radar technology, we have also become a gateway for HENSOLDT’s advanced radar, optronics, spectrum dominance and avionics solutions for the UK Defence market. By utilising local resources, we ensure sovereign operation and support with a clear focus on protecting the UK's strategic interests.

UK flag on soldiers arm. UK military uniform. United Kingdom troops

Key figures

180

Employees

250

Years of heritage

5000

Operational facility m2

Over 250 years of British technology

HENSOLDT UK boasts a rich history that spans over 250 years, tracing its origins back to Thomas Hughes, a Master of the Clock-makers Guild, and Lord Kelvin, a prominent inventor and one of the world’s greatest scientists.

As a continuous innovator in radar sensors and systems, the company has an exceptional record of technological milestones.

These range from the first type-approved radar in 1947 to today’s world’s first commercially available, affordable, and multipurpose solid-state radar for maritime navigation.

The First Type Approved Radar - HENSOLDT UK History

1940s

In 1947, Kelvin Hughes revolutionised maritime navigation with the release of the first commercial marine radar. The pioneering Type 1 radar, initially installed on a fishing trawler, marked a new era of safety and situational awareness for vessels.

In his foreword to New Eyes for a New World, Arthur Hughes expressed excitement for this groundbreaking technology, envisioning a future where radar would reshape marine navigation.

HENSOLDT UK leadership

Adrian Pilbeam

Managing Director

Adrian Pilbeam has built a distinguished career in the maritime industry following his service in the Royal Navy. In 2006, he joined Kelvin Hughes, where he held several key senior sales roles, including leading the company's U.S. operations in Washington, D.C.

After Kelvin Hughes was acquired by HENSOLDT, Adrian returned to the UK to take on the role of Head of Sales for Maritime Surveillance.

Since 2022, Adrian has been instrumental in restructuring HENSOLDT's UK operations, serving as Head of UK Radar & Naval Solutions. His leadership and expertise have been pivotal in driving business growth and operational efficiency.

In recognition of his contributions, Adrian was appointed Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK in June 2024, where he continues to lead the organisation with strategic vision and a focus on innovation.